IN a historic moment for McGrath High School they secured their first-ever Ben Francis Cup title with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Frome Technical in the final at the National Stadium on Saturday.

The main hero was Donate Anderson, whose goal in the 51st minute etched McGrath’s name in the annals of schoolboy football.

As both teams took to the field for the highly anticipated final, the tension was palpable.

The first half witnessed a staunch defensive battle, with neither team able to break the deadlock.

The half-time break proved crucial for McGrath as they returned to the pitch with determination and a hunger for victory.

In the 51st minute Anderson capitalised on an opportune moment, unleashing a precise strike that found the back of the net and sending the McGrath supporters into jubilation.

Frome tried very desperately to secure the equaliser but they were kept out due to solid defending from the McGrath defensive unit led by goalkeeper Joel Davis.

Jermaine Thomas, the head coach of McGrath, was very delighted with his team’s performance.

“This is very awesome for us because this is our first-ever final, and to come away with the Ben Francis Cup, it is a tremendous feeling for us,” said Thomas.

“I think my team played very well because we had to work very hard for this title. The team has been working very hard for this and I can’t imagine how our principal and the whole community of rural Linstead are feeling about us winning this title,” Thomas said.

For McGrath, this triumph marked not only their first Ben Francis Cup but also their inaugural appearance in a schoolboy football final. The players, coaching staff, and supporters revelled in the historic achievement, savouring the joy of bringing home the coveted trophy.

The road to the final had been challenging but MaGrath showcased resilience and skill throughout the tournament. The momentous win highlighted the rise of McGrath as a force in schoolboy football.

Frome, valiant in their efforts, faced disappointment as they narrowly missed out on the title — but the match was a testament to the competitive spirit and determination displayed by both teams.

As McGrath celebrated their historic victory the Ben Francis Cup final could be remembered as a defining chapter in the school’s football legacy.